Soil salinity is a major abiotic stress that drastically hinders plant growth and development, resulting in lower crop yields and productivity. As one of the most consumed vegetables worldwide, tomato (Solanum lycropersicum L.) plays a key role in the human diet. The current study aimed to explore the differential tolerance level of two tomato varieties (Rio Grande and Agata) to salt stress. To this end, various growth, physiological and biochemical attributes were assessed after two weeks of 100 mM NaCl treatment. Obtained findings indicated that, although the effects of salt stress included noticeable reductions in shoots’ and roots’ dry weights and relative growth rate as well as total leaf area, for the both cultivars, Rio Grande performed better compared to Agata variety. Furthermore, despite the exposure to salt stress, Rio Grande was able to maintain an adequate tissue hydration and a high leaf mass per area (LMA) through the accumulation of proline. However, relative water content, LMA and proline content were noticeably decreased for Agata cultivar. Likewise, total leaf chlorophyll, soluble proteins and total carbohydrates were significantly decreased; whereas, malondialdehyde was significantly accumulated in response to salt stress for the both cultivars. Moreover, such negative effects were remarkably more pronounced for Agata relative to Rio Grande cultivar. Overall, the current study provided evidence that, at the early growth stage, Rio Grande is more tolerant to salt stress than Agata variety. Therefore, Rio Grande variety may constitute a good candidate for inclusion in tomato breeding programs for salt-tolerance and is highly recommended for tomato growers, particularly in salt-affected fields.

The present study aimed to determine the dynamic relationship between good governance, fiscal policy, and economic growth in Oman. In the context of the current study, researchers chose a quantitative approach to answer the research questions, utilizing the latest 2023 data from the World Bank and The Global Economy databases. The data for the current study was carefully selected using variables that represent aspects of governance, fiscal policies, and economic performance. Our analysis uses Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression and the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) Model. These methods help us understand these factors’ immediate and long-term impacts on Oman’s economy. The results we obtained offer fascinating insights into the country’s economic dynamics. We observe bidirectional causal relationships between the Good Governance Index (GGI) and the Regulatory Quality Index (RQI) and economic growth, while Fiscal Policy Effectiveness (FPE), Government Efficiency Index (GEI), and the Rule of Law Index (RLI) exhibit unidirectional causality towards GDP. Budget Balance (BB) shows no causal relationship with GDP, implying external factors influence it. Additionally, moderation analysis underscores the significance of digital financial inclusion in amplifying the effects of governance and fiscal policies on economic growth. These findings hold practical implications for policymakers and stakeholders in Oman. Specifically, they highlight the importance of governance, regulatory quality, and effective fiscal policies in shaping the economic landscape. To foster sustainable economic development, efforts should improve governance, enhance fiscal policy effectiveness, and promote digital financial inclusion.

This research explores the implementation of streamlined licensing frameworks and consolidated procedures for promoting renewable energy generation worldwide. An in-depth analysis of the challenges faced by renewable energy developers and the corresponding solutions was identified through a series of industry interviews. The study aims to shed light on the key barriers encountered during project development and implementation, as well as the strategies employed to overcome these obstacles. By conducting interviews with professionals from the renewable energy sector, the research uncovers a range of common challenges, including complex permitting processes, regulatory uncertainties, grid integration issues, and financial barriers. These challenges often lead to project delays, increased costs, and limited investment opportunities, thereby hindering the growth of renewable energy generation. However, the interviews also reveal various solutions and best practices employed by industry stakeholders to address these challenges effectively. These solutions encompass the implementation of streamlined licensing procedures, such as single licenses and one-stop services, to simplify and expedite the permitting process. Additionally, the development of clear and stable regulatory frameworks, collaboration between public and private entities, and improved grid infrastructure were identified as key strategies to overcome regulatory and grid integration challenges. The research findings highlight the importance of collaborative efforts between policymakers, industry players, and other relevant stakeholders to create an enabling environment for renewable energy development. By incorporating the identified solutions and best practices, policymakers can streamline regulatory processes, foster public-private partnerships, and enhance grid infrastructure, thus catalyzing the growth of renewable energy projects.

To investigate the possible role of arbuscular mycrrhizal fungi (AMF) in alleviating the negative effects of salinity on Stevia rebaudiana (Bert.), the regenerated plantlets in tissue culture was transferred to pots in greenhouse and inoculated with Glomus intraradices. Salinity caused a significant decrease in chlorophyll content, photosynthesis efficiency and enhanced the electrolyte leakage. The use of AMF in salt –affected plants resulted in improved all above mentioned characteristics. Hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents increased in salt stressed plants while a reduction was observed due to AMF inoculation. CAT activity showed a significant increase up to 2 g/l and then followed by decline at 5 g/l NaCl in both AMF and non-AMF treated stevia, however, AMF inoculated plants maintained lower CAT activity at all salinity levels (2 and 5 g/l). Enhanced POX activities in salt- treated stevia plants were decreased by inoculation of plants with AMF. The addition of NaCl to stevia plants also resulted in an enhanced activity of SOD whilst, AMF plants maintained higher SOD activity at all salinity levels than those of non-AMF inoculated plants. AMF inoculation was capable of alleviating the damage caused by salinity on stevia plants by reducing oxidative stress and improving photosynthesis efficiency. 

This research aims to examine in more depth the changes resulting from the Job Creation Law, which impact the level of business friendliness in Indonesia, and how to analyze these changes to improve the business environment to be more conducive to carrying out business activities. This research uses normative legal research methods and is analytical descriptive research. There have been several changes since the emergence of the Job Creation Law, such as the establishment of a limited liability company. Changes to the Job Creation Law could improve the Indonesian economy. However, juridically, this regulation gives authority to the central government to manage micro and small businesses, contrary to the principle of decentralization, which prioritizes the provision of resources to local governments.

India’s economic growth is of significant interest due to its expanding Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and global market influence. This study investigates the interplay between production, trade, carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, and economic growth in India using Granger causality analysis. Also, the data from 1994 to 2023 were analyzed to explore the relationships among these variables. The results reveal strong positive correlations among production, trade, CO₂ emissions, and GDP, with production showing significant associations with export, import, and GDP. Co-integration tests confirm the presence of a long-term relationship among the variables, suggesting their interconnectedness in shaping India’s economic landscape. Regression analysis indicates that production, export, import, United States (US)-India trade, manufacturing cost of energy, and CO₂ emissions significantly impact GDP. Moreover, the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) estimation reveals both short-term and long-term dynamics, highlighting the importance of understanding equilibrium and deviations in economic variables. Overall, this study contributes to a better understanding of the complex interactions driving India’s economic growth and sustainability.